I've also resented the treatment of the great Muttiah Muralitharan. Even after his action was cleared by scientific measurement, there were still plenty of people who knew better. They knew nothing of the science of the thing, of course, but what did that matter? They felt in their water that there was something amiss. And they actually thought that was good enough, and frequently wrote as much, generally in the Australian press.

Is it legal for journalists to tell barefaced lies to bolster their articles (and keep up their grudges)?

Last time Australia played an ODI in New Zealand (the World Cup match at Eden Park) everyone thought road and runs, then the ball started moving. Given recent matches, though, and the hefty scores made by Australia, India, New Zealand and Pakistan you'd have to think juicy runs will be on the menu.